A Cuban serving in the U.S. Army took to Instagram to share the intricate details of his military transfer from the United States to Italy, a journey that unfolded over two years ago. This transition, which spanned approximately eight months, involved complex logistics, weeks spent sleeping on the floor, and two months in a hotel room upon arriving in Europe.
Known to his followers as José "Pepe" Ávalo, this content creator — who goes by the handle @el_pepe_avalo and enjoys a dedicated audience of Cubans and Latinos in the Army — posted a reel to elucidate the process of a PCS (Permanent Change of Station). This official mechanism enables the military to relocate soldiers and their families to a new base.
In his video, Ávalo describes how the procedure kicked off with paperwork, medical exams, and organizing two separate moves: one for general belongings shipped by sea months before the journey, and another for appliances that ended up in storage due to incompatibility with European electrical systems.
The family's vehicle also made the transatlantic journey, traveling by ship from Norfolk, Virginia, to Italy.
Challenges and Humor in the Journey
During their interim period in the U.S., as they awaited their departure date, the family lived minimally. "We were sleeping on mattresses on the floor and literally living with the bare essentials," Ávalo recalled.
The actual trip was no less chaotic. "Two small daughters, a ton of luggage, two layovers in Frankfurt, nearly missing our flight to Venice — total chaos, but we made it to Italy," he recounted with humor.
Settling into a New Life in Italy
Upon arrival, the initial two weeks were dedicated to mandatory orientation to familiarize themselves with the laws and procedures of their new location. Finding a home was next: "We lived in a hotel room for two months before finally moving into our current house," Ávalo explained.
Regarding documentation, he clarified that he didn't need a visa or special residence permit. "I don't have any conventional documents to live in Italy; just my American passport and my military orders, which are a document signed and authorized by NATO." His wife and daughters, however, received a special residence permit valid for the duration of his assignment.
Despite being stationed in Europe, Ávalo continues to pay U.S. taxes, describing the experience as a "temporary migration." "Eventually, I'll return to the United States or wherever the Army sends me next," he stated.
Adapting to Italian Culture
His daughters quickly adapted, and according to Ávalo, they now love Italy. For him, the transition was smoother thanks to a trait he attributes to his identity as a Cuban emigrant.
"Italy has been worth it both professionally and for our family. Immersing ourselves in the culture, language, and Italian cuisine has been a unique experience we've had the chance to live in high definition," Ávalo concluded. He summed up his philosophy with a phrase that became the heart of his video: "I'm an emigrant, and I'm Cuban. I already come with the adaptability chip installed; I just needed a system update. Happy and grateful for life."
This isn't the first time Cubans in the Army have shared their experiences on social media, a trend that has gained traction in recent years among the Latino community within the U.S. Armed Forces.
Understanding Military Transfers and Life Abroad
What is a PCS in the U.S. Army?
A PCS, or Permanent Change of Station, is the process by which the U.S. Army relocates soldiers and their families to a new base of assignment.
How do military families handle moving abroad?
Military families typically prepare for moving abroad by organizing shipments of their belongings, handling necessary paperwork, and acclimating to new cultures and environments.
Do military personnel need visas to live overseas?
Military personnel often do not require visas to live overseas; their military orders and American passports usually suffice. However, family members may need special residence permits.